Baby Bean Update: 35 Weeks

I didn't get a chance to post yesterday, which was 35 weeks. Spending most of the day cleaning doesn't call for any picture-worthy outfits (or hair... or anything, really). This is what I wore to church this morning after trying on four different dresses. Nothing fits and surprisingly, this non-maternity dress was the ticket. Granted, it's a total tent (I obviously belted it, pre-pregnancy), it felt like a weightless nightgown and really, that's all I'm asking for at this point. I couldn't even bear to wear my black heels, so these casual sandals had to fill in and as much as I don't like the two together, sometimes comfort overrules. 

dress: Simply Vera for Kohl's, shoes: Fergie, earrings: Anika Burke 

(30% off your purchase by clicking on the Anika Burke ad on my sidebar!)

35 weeks has been a tough marker for me. I'm seriously at the point where I cry when I open my mouth to talk, everything is in my way or is making me anxious, I'm hungry, but can't eat much, indigestion is like... outrageous, and honestly, when people ask, "How are you feeling?" All I can think of is, "Pregnant." Because if I said what I really wanted to say, they'd look at me like I had five heads and totally didn't appreciate this miracle of life that God has given me the opportunity to grow. And trust me, I AM THANKFUL and blessed and I know it to the core. There just comes a time when the baby should come out. I'd like it to be yesterday.

I have to sit down halfway through music worship at church because my feet get so swollen and I swear that whatever is going on to my left hip/pelvis/back strap better be reversible or I'm going to be icing my body for life. When husband touches me, I tell him it hurts to live. AND my maternity photo shoot is this weekend with my best friend, Jackie. She's the sweetest, most patient, motherly person I know. I hope I don't get her to yell at me... That would be bad. I can just see her suggesting a pose and me saying, "Are you KIDDING ME right now?" 

(Jackie, I promise I'll try to keep my opinions to myself and trust the professional.)

I said I felt like I was carrying a watermelon around. 

My brother corrected me and said Bean looked more like a beach ball.

Gee, thanks.

Also, my back does NOT come out as far as this dress. I told you it's a tent.

Don't forget to stop by for the Mommy Moxie giveaway, tomorrow!

Check out my review, here!

Baby Bean Update: 32 Week Update

I'm wondering exactly how much bigger I can get.

That's really all that's on my mind. That, pain, and watermelon.

Apparently, I'm also neighborly and Husband catches me waving.

 hi-lo ruffle top: c/o Anika Burke, tank: Maurices, jeans: Motherhood, sandals: Target, necklace: family heirloom, bracelets: c/o Anika Burke, "wedding ring:" fakeout while mine don't fit from Kohl's ($9, yeah!)

 Bean is moving non-stop, which is awesome because I had some time where she didn't move about a week ago and again on Thursday. It was kind of scary, but I drank a ton of ice water (60 oz!), laid on my left side, and she started up again. Phew! I'm not exactly sure if there's any more growing room in there, but I'm feeling pretty healthy other than the back pain and Braxton Hicks contractions. Those babies used to feel like pressure and now they're pretty painful. Yuck! And it's practice for what? My c-section. Nice.

 

 In other news, I don't hate my hair anymore. I was having such a hair color identity crisis over the past few weeks and I'm really over worrying about it all... It's not so bad. Husband and my friend, Mell, really like it with a little bit of roots showing. I think I do, too. I was quick to think it needed to be touched up, but I think it looks less harsh against my skin with the darker roots. What do you think? You know, since my hair is the topic of conversation as of late.

In other, other news, I am so excited about my new bracelets and Light as a Feather top from Anika Burke! I received these items in the mail last week and couldn't wait to wear them! I also received a beautiful ivory bow belt with a sweet note that suggested I wait until Bean is born for comfort. If you haven't had the chance to pop over to Anika Burke, check them out on Facebook and Twitter, too! If you haven't noticed (ahem), if you check out the little ad on my sidebar, YOU can receive 30% off of your Anika Burke order by using the code LITTLE-BIT. Go 'head. Treat yourself!

* Anika Burke Junior Clothing * Anika Burke * Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique * 

In the otherest of newses (I'm so making up words, here), I have some exciting giveaways starting this Monday, May 14 for those of you interested in my new shop, Bitty Bug Designs! I'm so excited to be spreading the word and sharing products that I'm passionate about! I've worked so hard on starting up my stock and I'm excited to begin custom orders as I build fabric inventory. Please stay tuned to find out where you can enter to win some Bitty Bug swag! Special thank yous go out for all of the support I've had and if you haven't, yet, follow Bitty Bug Designs on Facebook and Twitter!

Old to New WINNERS!

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Old to New in October refashion series with Natasha and me! We really enjoyed hosting the project and working on our own refashions as well! We are happy to announce the three winners of the Anika Burke prize packages!

Megan - The Frugalista Diaries - Sparkled Button Up DIY
- First place (most creative/wearable): $20 credit to www.anikaburke.com PLUS the Elegant Rose flower bracelet and two matching accessories!


Lia - Smart N Snazzy - Old Sweater to New Sweater DIY- Random draw: 12 piece prize pack (12 Anika Burke accessories!)


Bri - Shoes Are My Muse - Peplum Vest DIY- Random draw: 3 piece prize pack (3 Anika Burke accessories!)


Please contact me or Natasha via email with your shipping address so Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique can send your prizes! Once again, thank you to everyone who put forth the effort to participate in our project. We really enjoyed sharing our refashions with all of you!

Old to New in October: Glitterized

Natasha of Required 2 Be Inspired and I are hosting Old to New in October. The premise of this month-long project is to take something you already own and don't love and turn it into something totally wearable, again! It saves money and helps you recycle your wardrobe while getting crafty!

What girl doesn't love a jar of glitter? I know that ever since I was a little girl, I've adored all things sparkly and although I never owned a pair, to this day, I covet the red ruby slippers you can find at Target, Walmart, etc. In fact, it took every ounce of my being not to purchase the little girls' size 5 red ruby flats at Target last week. It's not just the red, though. The whole glitter thing is gorgeous and so girly. I knew I'd have to find a pair of my ragged shoes to DIY for one of the October projects and here's my take:

I took a very sick, sad, 5-6 year old Old Navy Mary Janes:

How I did it:

1. Cut straps off shoes (you can still see the tabs in the final product)

2. Stuff shoes with newspaper

3. Cover shoes in glue

4. Dump glitter on shoes

5. Let dry

6. Mix Sparkle Mod Podge in a spray bottle with water, shake, spray shoes

7. Let dry and wear!

This was relatively simple, but very messy. There's glitter all over my front porch, despite vacuuming and using gobs of water to rinse it. Oh well, I guess if I love glitter as much as I claim, I'll be happy with a glittered porch.

You can still see some white in with the glitter and that's because I couldn't wait to take pictures. The Mod Podge is still soaking wet in the final product photos and it's night time, so there isn't enough shimmer to show! I can't wait to dump the glitter out when they're dry and wear 'em in the sunlight for an outfit post!

Remember to link your refashion to this post or to Natasha's at Required 2 Be Inspired! And don't forget about the prizes and our lovely sponsor!

Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique has graciously agreed to sponsor our entire Old to New in October project and will be providing some lovely prizes for not one, but THREE winners at the end of the month!

To qualify for any prizes, you must link your refashion project either here or at Required 2 Be Inspired on any Thursday during October. Each time you link up, it counts as one entry! The first prize winner will be chosen by Anika Burke, Natasha, and me based on the most creative and wearable project. Two other winners who have linked up throughout the month will be chosen at random! To be qualified for the random draw, you must link back to Anika Burke in your post. You can simply say, "Old to New in October is sponsored by Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique!" Or word it however you'd like, but as long as you do a project, link up, and link back to the online shop, you're in for the random draw!

- First place (most creative/wearable): $20 credit to www.anikaburke.com PLUS the Elegant Rose flower bracelet and two matching accessories!
- Random draw: 12 piece prize pack (12 Anika Burke accessories!)
- Random draw: 3 piece prize pack (3 Anika Burke accessories!)

October Sponsor Lovin'

It's already mid-October, but I want to share these awesome companies and blogs with you! I hope you take a few minutes to check everyone out and take advantage of some of the awesome things you'll find within each site!

Poshlocket is a brand new, fashion-forward online jewelry boutique, stationed in New York. With simple but edgy, and elegant but modern choices, you'll be able to meet all of your fashion jewelry needs at this one-stop shop! Poshlocket also boasts free shipping on all orders and returns, which is a luxury that's so difficult to find when online ordering! Some of my favorite pieces from the boutique include the following beauties that mix metal and fabric!

(left to right)

Jenny Fabric Weave Cuff

Stacey Three Chain Fabric Bracelet

Katie Fabric Weave Bracelet

(left to right)

Lacey Fabric Long Necklace

Shelly Fabric Choker

These fabric pieces are not only chic and unique, but if you order them during the month of October and/or until supplies last, you will get a FREE pair of matching metal & chain earrings! Hello! Great deal, beautiful jewelry, free shipping, free gift? Yes, please!

To learn more about Poshlocket, check their About page!

If you weren't lucky enough to meet Andi of The Hollie Rogue last month, now's your chance! This sweet, skilled, and very busy SAHM is running a successful blog, being an awesome parent, living with so much faith, and sprinkling joy into our lives every day with her talents! Some of the wonderful things you can look forward to when reading The Hollie Rogue are:

Delicious meals

handmade crafts and tutorials

Andi is also a burgeoning photographer and has tons of tips and tricks to share each Friday! Be sure to stop by, follow, and leave some love from a little bit of this... readers!

Megan, the writer behind The Frugalista Diaries, is not only a frugal fashionista, but she's also a dear friend and I'm so glad we've been able to work together this month! With her blog, Megan is able to take a serious budget and show us how to create high fashion looks, sharing them in her personal street style posts. A recent favorite of mine is her gorgeous Asos dress toughened up with a vintage belt.

You'll also find DIYs, up to date fashion news, looks for less/spot the steals, tutorials, and even the surprise delicious recipe about once a week! My mouth was drooling over her cherry coffee cake a few weekends ago!

Stop by The Frugalista Diaries and give Megan some love!

Oh, hey! It's tights weather, again! Have you stopped by We Love Colors to order your stock for the cool weather? I have! I'm looking forward to rocking colors with my wardrobe in sweet, chic, and of course, unexpected ways this season. With 51 colors plus splash and fishnet choices, you can't go wrong! I even styled some kelly green knee socks that you'll see on Saturday!

That's it for October, my friends! I hope you get a chance to stop by and check everyone out. Take advantage of these awesome shops and bloggeristas. You won't be sorry! Happy October!

Hopefully, you crafties are working on your project for this Thursday's Old to New October! We've GOT THE PRIZES and our sponsor, Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique to share with you! Stay tuned!

Sponsor Love: Anika Burke in the Navy

Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique just gets better and better as it adds new items every month and staples down trends for each season. Right with the rage of the cooler months, the team at Anika Burke has chosen beautiful items in shades of navy blue that are sure to please. Here are five pieces that should make it to your closet for fall and winter!

Our Favorite Crewneck

Long, lean and soft, this crewneck is perfect for layering or pairing with your favorite denim.

Elegant Rose Flower Bracelet

If Anika Burke knows anything about anything, they truly know EVERYTHING about accessories! These vintage inspired flower beads will add a sweet and feminine touch to your fall and winter wardrobe.

Fringed in Floral Dress

This dress just does everything right. With its beautiful shade of navy, military inspired button detail, floral embellished hemline, and bow tie waist, it's a must-own piece!

Tribal in Cobalt Earrings

Prefer more neutral ground with your outfits? Kick your jeans and tee up a notch with these eye-catching earrings in a bright cobalt blue, embellished with gold tribal designs.

Midnight in Prague Dress

One shoulder, chiffon, and a mini? Husband, take me on a date, please! If you are looking for understated sex appeal, this beautiful piece is definitely for you!

As always, I thoroughly enjoy working with Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique. The products are constantly rotating, the prices are amazing, and the owner has the.best. customer service of anyone I've ever met in retail! Now, go grab some navy items for your cool-month wardrobe!

Sponsor Spotlight: Anika Burke & Daily Deals!

When it came time to plan sponsor spotlights for September, I wanted to make sure I hit on the ever-important Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique Daily Deals! Every single day of the week (and weekend!) the team at Anika Burke holds a sweet steal that you won't know about unless you check the website, follow on twitter, and/or "like" the shop on facebook! The Daily Deal will absolutely blow your mind each day. Prices are out of this world and sometimes I'm even completely shocked at WHICH items are chosen! I'm always on the edge of my seat to see what's next and you should be, too! Scattered throughout this post, I'm sharing some of Anika Burke's newest additions to the shop that I'm *hoping* will show up on a Daily Deal (although the first and last items are already killer prices, right?)!

So, here's how Daily Deals work:

Mystery Mondays - This is the day you'll get the BEST DEALS of the week! There's only one catch. You hardly get any information on the steal items! For instance, you might see a short description and have no photo. You might get a piece of the full image. But if you want to sneak a little extra information, follow Anika Burke on facebook for hints! 

Twelve Dollar Tuesdays - Every Tuesday, you'll find a steal at Anika Burke for just $12.00. WIN!!!

Daquiri Darling: $13.95

Wednesday Free for All - Stick around for a surprise! Wednesday can hold any type of steal, so stay on your toes and check Anika Burke by 9:00 p.m., PT on Tuesday nights for the deal!

Last Chance Thursdays - Low quantity items from regular inventory go on sale and if they're not sold out online by 9:00 p.m. the following Friday, the items move to the brick and mortar store and are gone from www.anikaburke.com forever! In other words: GRAB THEM!

Tea in the Afternoon: $41.95

Touring the Countryside: $48.95

Friday Free for All - Another surprise day! Keep up with the site to find out what deals will happen on Fridays!

Saturday & Sunday - Any steals that haven't sold out throughout the week will be rerun on the weekends. If all inventory has been sold, Saturday & Sundays are reserved for free shipping or a special price in regular inventory.

What a Gem: $6.95 (!!!)

Boutique Steals - Separate from regular inventory, these great deals are searched for and ordered in quantities large enough to give Anika Burke customers the best prices on amazing pieces. Boutique Steal items are only kept in the inventory for a week or less, so they're priced to move quickly!

** Because Boutique Steals are not regular inventory items, they are not returnable, but sizing is consistent with Anika Burke items and if for some reason the sizes run large or small, it is stated directly on the website!

So what does this mean for all of you? It means that you should keep your eyes peeled! There's a great deal at Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique every single day! Just visit the Daily Deal online. Bookmark it, for Pete's sake, crying out loud! Drink your coffee, click your bookmark. Shop. The end!

Super Secret Anika Burke Sale!

Yes, you heard me! My lovely sponsor, Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique decided to hold a very special sale for a little bit of this readers, only! I was lucky enough to choose the items I wanted featured in the sale, so they're all my picks! Unfortunately, some of the things I wanted are no longer available in my size! That darn Line Me Up dress keeps selling out in Large the second it goes online!

Friends, these sale prices are INSANE, so I have to send out a big thank you to Neeka and her team for working with me on this. I feel so blessed to have such an awesome sponsor and I hope you can snag some steals. There are 15 items for $15 or less! Here's a sneak peek:

Some of these items are going for more than 50% off for a little bit of this readers, only!!!
The sale lasts for one week and in order to receive the discounted prices, you must use the drop down order boxes on the sale page! Have at it!
GO TO THE SALE!

August Sponsor Spotlight

I introduced Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique to you last month, but this month, I want to share some of my must-have items from the shop! Be sure to stop by daily and check out the Daily Deal at Anika Burke. You never know; your favorite item might go on major sale! You can follow on twitter: @anikaburke and on facebook!!! Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique runs several specials and some are by word of mouth, so be sure to watch out for everything they have to offer!

Now, check out some of my absolute favorite items that you can find online this month!

Secret Garden

$43.95

Key to My Heart

$9.95

Twirling Tulip

$32.95

Modern Antoinette

$38.95

Bow Tie Clutch

$18.00!!!!

Head over to Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique and peruse the pretties today!